University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: Mon 12 noon - 1pm and Wed 11am - 1pm

The module situates LGBTQ citizens in global politics, analysing their multiple identities and positions in International Relations as targets of violence, as activists, and as good/unruly citizens. The module also applies queer theoretical concepts (performativity, embodiment, abjection, abnormality, & perversity) to critique IR's homophobic, heteronormative assumptions. The module is intersectional and multi-disciplinary and queers ways of learning about IR, including what is normal/abnormal in politics and thinkable/unthinkable politically. Each week, we develop diverse queer readings of different case studies and topics, including queer approaches to foreign policy analysis, war, genocide, political protest, and global health. The module also features student-led film and book discussion groups to apply queer theory to topics and themes of homosexual inclusion and exclusion in popular culture. Students of all backgrounds, gender identities, & sexualities welcome!

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2006

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1-hour lecture (x 10 weeks), 1.5-hour seminar (x 10 weeks), and 1-hour student book/film discussion group (x 11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 25

Guided independent study hours: 276

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr H A C Marshall
Module teaching staff: Dr Holly Marshall

Intended learning outcomes

• Cultivate clear and multi-disciplinary understanding and knowledge of queer theories (plural);
• Develop ability to situate queer theory alongside other theoretical strands, including feminism, post-/de-colonialism, and critical theory;
• Foster an understanding of the relevance and potential applications of queer theory to the terminology, concepts, theories, and practices of the discipline of IR;
• Acquire familiarity with key queer cultural and literary texts, and develop skills of critical textual analysis and queer reading;
• Hone discourse analysis research and writing skills;
• Forge theoretical and practical connections between global processes/structures and everyday political life and subjectivity.